The business community on the Gulf Coast got news it hasn’t heard in a decade—a new bank will open in Sarasota. A charter application for Gulfside Bank has been filed with the state of Florida, and the institution plans to open in the fourth quarter of this year. Dennis Murphy will serve as the bank’s president and CEO. “We are forming this bank to provide high quality personal service and customized banking solutions to the residents of Sarasota and Manatee counties,” Murphy said in a statement. “We will offer financial products and services designed to meet the unique needs of our clients and all decisions will be made locally by highly trained bankers and directors who know the market. Bank management and all its directors live and work locally and have a mutual interest in furthering the prosperity of the community.”

In fact, the bank will be the first new state-chartered bank to form in Florida in 10 years. That’s left the Gulf Coast, once a hotbed of community banking, with just one bank based in Sarasota and one in Manatee, Sabal Palm Bank and Premier Community Bank of Florida respectively.

Murphy, former executive vice president and senior lending officer for Gateway Bank of Southwest Florida, will serve on the Gulfside Bank board of directors with a number of other business leaders in the region. Tim Clarke, a previous director of Insignia Bank, will serve as board chair for the new institution. Other directors include: Jennifer Compton, shareholder at Shucker, Kendrick & Loop; Compton Cramer, former owner of Cramer Auto Group; Rogan Donnelly, president of Tervis Tumbler; Teri Hansen, CEO of the Charles and Margery Barancik Foundation; John LaCivita, executive vice president at Willis Smith Construction; Sam Norton, partner at Norton, Hammersley, Lopez & Skokos; Mike Pender, co-managing partner of Cavanaugh & Co. CPAs; Dr. Charles Rush, orthopedic surgeon at Kennedy White Orthopedics; and Drayton Saunders, president of Michael Saunders & Co.

Clarke says board members have pledged to provide 25 percent of the capital, assuring a commitment to the venture. “I call it a pure play bank, so there is no out-of-town influence and we have people who are committed,” Clarke says.

While the Sarasota-Manatee area at one point was more lush than most of Florida in terms of number of banks, it also saw a number of bank failures amid the financial crisis and Great Recession. As new regulations put more financial requirements on banks, the region also saw a number of healthy banks acquired by larger institutions or which went the route of merger to form larger institutions. But as federal officials including Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin look at loosening regulations, at least on small community banks, a shift the other direction may occur, Clarke says.

“You don’t want it to be easy to open a bank,” Clarke says. “The process is difficult, but you want it be difficult.” But you also want small community banks, he says, so a lightening of burdens on upstart institutions is welcome. And he says in Tallahassee, there’s rumors of four or five other banks planning to form in Florida.

“Community banks have basically gone away, but they are the heartbeat of economic well-being and are so important to success to a small town,” Clarke says.

[Out-of-Door Academy]Out-of-Door Academy receives the gift of learning with the brand new Dart STEM Lab

New to The Out-of-Door Academy Siesta Key Campus is an incredible addition that fourth and fifth grade students have begun enjoying currently, and for the future to come. The Out-of-Door Academy Siesta Key Campus has an incredible new fourth and fifth grade STEM lab that enhances learning for students. The Dart Foundation funded a new classroom space, which will encourage students to discover the most innovate usage of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) learning, equipped with the newest materials and methods. Along with this exciting addition, the Lower School campus has also been equipped with new, top-notch equipment so that the student’s students there also have the chance to engage with STEM learning. The Head of Lower School, Tanna Horner says “Teaching our kids to actively engage in the sciences and engineering-and the learning that comes from those disciplines-is critical to the needs of today’s learner.” ODA focuses on preparing each and every student for success, and providing essential skills needed to excel. The Dart STEM Lab is just one example of how they are doing so. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for The Out-of-Door Academy!

Tired of ordering pizza and making the same old stir-fry at home? Here’s the cooking inspo you’ve been looking for to spice things up at home. A series of special cooking classes will be held at The Francis, unlocking the complex and flavorful secrets of Indian cuisine to Sarasotans. Discover Indian in it’s truest/tastiest form just by joining any of the four engaging and deeply interactive tutorials, hosted by Deepa Thomas—author of cookbook, Deepa’s Secrets, which takes you from classic Indian traditions to modern Indian cooking with deliciously simple recipes. Each class encompasses an integrated cultural theme and begin with chutney and pappadams—ingredients and aprons provided!

The first class in the series, ‘Basics of Indian Cuisine’, you’ll explore a typical Indian pantry—learning in detail about authentic spices/herbs, and how to blend them to make fragrant masalas, enabling you to create easy and diverse Indian dishes of your own. Many elements of Indian cooking are exotic and even difficult to pronounce. In fact, you won't find many at your local grocery store. But after the class, the mystique of this rich cuisine will be revealed! Deepa will further divulge her shortcuts and techniques to make exotic Indian an everyday fare in your kitchen. Her hands-on classes will embark in an intimate setting allowing attendees to participate as much or as little as they’d like. You may join her in getting your hands dirty, preparing the dishes for each course or, you may sit back, relax with a drink, and be entertained by the tableside experience! Fly solo, bring a date, or come with a group of friends—either way, the class will be immediately transported from downtown Sarasota to the South Asian country in a blink of an eye.

First class of the series: March 25th, 6:00-8.30pm. The $65 per person ticket price includes interactive class, three course meal and a recipe booklet. Classes are limited in size, so book ahead to reserve your seat at The Indian Table.

Debra Gingerich has been promoted to director of marketing at JMX Brands, the largest online retailer of Amish furniture with its flagship website www.dutchcrafters.com. The first employee of the company after the founders, Gingerich worked as writer and communications manager for JMX Brands from 2004-2006 before returning in 2015. Gingerich’s promotion to director of marketing recognizes her leadership responsibilities in the company, including chairing the committee that rewrote the mission statement and the committee responsible for enhancing communications with customers. Gingerich also received the President’s Award at the company’s 15th anniversary celebration, in recognition of her significant contributions, including building the content, communications and marketing team; establishing a brand narrative, video platform and advertising platforms; and spearheading the use of a customer relationship management (CRM) tool.JMX Brands is a niche internet retailer founded in 2003 in Sarasota. The company operates several online home furnishing and décor sites, including the aforementioned flagship Amish furniture site and an eco-friendly furniture and home décor site at www.ecofriendlydigs.com.

Caldwell Trust Company has been honored with an ADDY by AdFed Suncoast, the local chapter of the American Advertising Federation, for excellence in advertising. The company won a Silver Addy for its full-page print advertisement headlined “Let’s Talk About Your Tomorrows Today.” Sheryl Vieira, Caldwell’s vice president of marketing and public relations, was art director for the ad and created the concept, which was implemented with graphic design by Troy Haggard of HQ Designs, LLC. Vieira is a member of the Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA) and Florida Bankers Association. She was appointed as a member of the RESIDENCE International Marketing Advisory Committee representing this region of the United States. She has received The President’s Volunteer Service Award from the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation in conjunction with the National & Community Service and USA Freedom Corps. She was a member of the Young Professionals of the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce and was also a member of the Junior League of Sarasota.

[Community]Manatee County Hosts Public Meeting on Water Main Replacement

Manatee County will host a public meeting later this month to discuss the Flamingo Cay Water Main Replacement project in Bradenton. The public meeting will be held March 29, 5:30–7:30pm at Northwest Baptist Church, 7913 9th Avenue NW, Bradenton. The meeting will begin with a formal presentation, after which project staff will be on hand to answer questions concerning the project and potential impacts. Project information will also be on display. The project involves replacing approximately 10,000 linear feet of 46-year-old water mains on Flamingo Cay with new pipes, fire hydrants, valves and service connections, to provide fire protection and increased water pressure on Flamingo Cay. Construction will begin following the acquisition of utility easements and final design.

The Silver Foxes are a troupe of professionally directed, volunteer performers who have been bringing entertainment to the area for nearly 26 years. Their annual MainStage production evokes Carol Burnett-style variety shows with singing, dancing, and hilarious sketch comedy.

The American Watercolor Society celebrates 150 years of fine art with a traveling exhibit making a stop right in Bradenton. Featuring the work of near 150 artists, including Sarasota’s own Judy Saltzman, the show hangs in the Kellogg Gallery. In the Searle and Reid Hodges Galleries, the Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society Exhibit brings even more watercolor to a day at ArtCenter Manatee.

ArtCenter Manatee, 209 9th St. W., Bradenton

[TODAY]GALLERY:
Cast, Cut and Cold - Glass , January 8 – March 24

Technically amazing and visually stunning examples of creations by more than two dozen masters of glass art including Peter Bremers, Vadlec Ciglar and Irene Frolic astound in this exhibition. Numerous examples, styles and methods of glass casting and etching are represented in this one-of-a-kind gallery.

When lawyer Pablo and his pregnant wife Tania move into a new house next to Frank and Virginia, two members of the community, a dispute over a longstanding fence spirals out of control into a battle of comical proportions. Clashing on everything from taste and privilege to accusations of entitlement, when a molehill becomes a mountain, nobody wins.

Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota

[SOON]THEATER:
The Things They Carried , March 21 – April 13

Based on a classic book, this production is a powerful telling of Tim O'Brien's personal journey from his innocent years in rural Minnesota to the jungles of Vietnam. A one-person Tour-de-force this play explores the lines between truth and reality as fact and fiction blur in this unforgettable soldier's journey.

Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota.

[SOON]MUSIC:
The Sound of Music , March 21 – March 24

This concert will future music from a wide array of classic, beloved movies. Prepare to Strike up the Band for our Flight to Neverland as we travel Over the Rainbow. Enjoy a Star Wars theme from a new movie and the classic score from To Kill a Mockingbird. The Pomp and Circumstance of this concert will remind us all of some of our favorite things

Love at first sight strikes the Cavalier Des Grieux and the enchanting Manon Lescaut. They flee to Paris, but when Des Grieux’s money runs out, Manon leaves him for a wealthy man. Yet despite the jewels and parties, Manon’s love for Des Grieux is inextinguishable and will burn them in ways they do not foresee.

Join the Sarasota World Affairs Council for a series of high–profile foreign affairs lectures covering current international issues ranging from foreign intelligence to peace negotiations to immigration and trade. This month, CEO and Co-founder of Manifold Technology, Chris Finan will explain how the government has been challenged to keep pace with changing technology. Each lecture is followed by a wine and cheese reception for members.

This year marks the 6th Anniversary of Women & Medicine educational luncheon featuring informative presentations and discussions from Sarasota Memorial Physicians. This event has raised more than $225,000 to date and this year will help support the Sarasota Memorial Comprehensive Stroke Center.

Michaelís on East, 1212 S East Ave, Sarasota, FL 34239

[SOON]GALA:
Party on the Pass , March 23, 6:30pm

Join Mote Marine Laboratory to support Mote’s hospitals for sea turtles, dolphins and whales at Party on the Pass. This casual evening of good food, good fun and good will, will take place at 6:30pm in the Aquarium courtyard.

Dick Hyman's background as a pianist, composer, arranger, music director and organist have helped him establish a fruitful career spanning decades. He has won numerous awards, including an Emmy and an MVP from the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. Pops Orchestra is proud to share the stage with this Hall of Fame musician for an evening of jazz tunes and original compositions.

Riverview Performing Arts Center, 1 Ram Way, Sarasota

[SOON]SEMINAR:
American Modern Architecture: Frame + Character in Hitchcock's Cinematic Spaces , March 29, 5:30pm

Buildings played a pivotal role in Alfred Hitchcock's groundbreaking works. For Hitchcock, modern buildings both visually and metaphorically represented the future in contrast with the past. Hitchcock utilized modernism's essential elements as cultural shorthand to convey society's views on anonymity and one's place in increasingly complex urban environments. Christine Madrid French, an advocate for the study and preservation of American architecture, will discuss in this visually-rich presentation of Hitchcock's penchant for filming suspenseful scenes against the backdrop of American modernist architechture.

Fanny Brice is a nobody who dreams of being famous, and through sheer guts and determination, fulfills her dream and becomes a star of the Ziegfeld Follies. Set in New York City just prior to and following World War I, it’s the songs and story that generations have grown to love including: “People,” “I’m the Greatest Star” and “Don’t Rain on My Parade.” The original cast recording was even inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame!

The Players Theatre , 838 N Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]THEATER:
Little Bit Country Little Bit Rock n' Roll , March 30

Grab yer guitar and boots, tilt yer cowboy hat and got ready to “Yeee Hawwww” your way through this country romp mixed with a healthy serving of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Jimmy Mazz takes you back to visit great country classics like Patsy Cline, Hank Williams and Johnny Cash, then crossing over to rockers like Bobby Darin, Jerry Lee Lewis and of course, Elvis plus many more!

In this exhibit, Elisabeth Trostili's digital paintings celebate the power of women. Each painting in Femmes Fatales could be described as a digital photographic collage that captures beauty, diversity, gender roles, spirituality and the richness of woman. New work by all of Art Uptown's 25 professional artists will be shown along with Trostili's featured pieces.

Master Classes offer a deeper look at various subjects, though are designed for any level, so no advance training required. This Master Class session will engage with key questions around art and quality. Throughout the series, you’ll discover your own criteria for quality, and begin to use your skills to assist your decision-making, whether you are acquiring works of art, or simply engaging as a viewer.

The Works, 891 South Tamiami Tr., Sarasota.

[SOON]THEATER:
Gloria , April 4 – April 29

Directed by Greg Leaming, this biting commentary on the office environment and the drive to succeed marries the horror of shocking workplace violence with a satirical sendup of how individuals respond, whether taking advantage or falling apart. A Pulitzer Prize finalist and selected by The New York Times as one of the best shows of 2015.

Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

SRQ DAILY is produced by SRQ | The Magazine.Note: The views and opinions expressed in the Saturday Perspectives Edition and in the Letters department of SRQ DAILY are those of the author(s) and do not imply endorsement by SRQ Media. Senior Editor Jacob Ogles edits the Saturday Perspective Edition, Letters and Guest Contributor columns.In the CocoTele department, SRQ DAILY is providing excerpts from news releases as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by SRQ DAILY. The views expressed by individuals are their own and their appearance in this section does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. For rates on SRQ DAILY banner advertising and sponsored content opportunities, please contact Ashley Ryan Cannon at 941-365-7702 x211 or via email

Connect

Follow Us

About Us

SRQ Media transforms what it means to live and love local through its portfolio of hyper-local print and online publications including its flagship city regional SRQ Magazine, its documentary, and video production division Moving Stories and non-profit development division Story Project. The SRQ Media team leverages its strong audience footprint to catalyze visionary community programs such as SB2: Regional Symposia Series, Women in Business, SMARTgirl, SkillSHARE and ProjecThinkby engaging individuals to positively impact their hometown of Sarasota and the Bradenton Area situated on the vibrant West Coast of Florida.

SRQ Gives Back

SRQ Media supports regional charitable, cultural and education organizations and not-profits throughout the year with custom programs and sponsorships.